Breast Implant Removal and Revision in Sydney
Breast implant removal is a clinical procedure designed to address complications from previous breast implants surgery, such as capsular contracture (the thickening or hardening of tissue around the implant), implant malfunction, or a change in personal preference regarding breast size. Furthermore, many patients who underwent breast implants surgery years ago now seek to utilise modern innovations in surgical techniques and implant technology.
On average, revision or replacement of implants is typically considered after 10–15 years. The procedure is usually performed as day surgery under general anaesthetic, typically lasting between one and two hours. When researching plastic surgery Sydney, it is vital to consult with a specialist who prioritises safety and patient education.
Common Surgical Techniques
1. Removal with Capsulectomy
To correct painful or aesthetically displeasing capsular contracture, incisions are usually made in the same location as the original breast implants surgery. During this procedure, the surgeon removes part or all of the scar tissue capsule surrounding the implant for a histopathological examination.
2. Removal and Replacement
This involves the removal of the old device and the placement of new implants, often utilizing a higher profile or different volume based on the patient’s clinical goals. This is a common form of secondary breast implants surgery.
3. Removal with Breast Lift Surgery
After removing implants or replacing them with smaller volumes, some patients may experience skin laxity. A breast lift (mastopexy) may be performed concurrently. This breast lift surgery removes excess skin and tightens the underlying tissue to provide improved support and a more youthful contour. During a breast lift, the areolas may also be resized to remain proportionate to the new breast shape.
4. Transition to Breast Reduction
In some instances, patients choose to remove their implants entirely and undergo a breast reduction in Sydney to achieve a smaller, natural breast size using their own tissue.
Choosing Your Specialist
When exploring options for plastic surgery Sydney, patients frequently search for the best plastic surgeon in Sydney or the best plastic surgeon in Australia. Under Australian law, “the best” is a subjective term; however, your priority should be selecting a specialist plastic surgeon who is Fellow-trained (FRACS) and operates in accredited facilities.
Mandatory Surgical Warning: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner. A GP referral is required for all cosmetic surgery consultations, and a mandatory seven-day cooling-off period applies after your initial assessment.
Returning to work and normal activities
Recovery times vary; we provide detailed aftercare instructions to support healing. Many patients return to work in about five days, but experiences can differ. However, breast lifts can make breasts feel heavy and tight for several weeks, while surgery for capsular contracture will cause higher levels of discomfort and lead to a more extended recovery time.
Scars typically fade over three to four months, but individual healing experiences may vary.
For six weeks after surgery, you must not lift anything heavier than five kilograms or engage in vigorous or excessive exercise. These activities can resume six weeks after surgery but allow three to six months for the breasts to finish repositioning.
Dr. Laith Barnouti, MBBS, FRACS (Plas), will assess you thoroughly and discuss potential risks and complications.; however these can include:
- Reduced sensitivity or numbing of the breasts and surrounding area for up to six months.
- Raised, red or painful scarring for up to a few years.
- Sagging or misshapen breasts.
- If the patient chooses not to replace removed breast implants, a breast lift may be needed to tighten stretched skin.
- Sometimes the procedure must take part in two stages. Stage one to remove the implants and perform a capsulectomy and stage two to introduce new implants and/or perform a breast lift.
Mandatory Surgical Warning
Surgical Warning: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner. Please read our Risks and Complications of Plastic Surgery page.
GP Referral & Assessment Requirements
In accordance with the latest April 2026 AHPRA and Medical Board of Australia regulations, all patients seeking a consultation for cosmetic surgery must obtain a referral from their General Practitioner (GP). This ensures your medical history is reviewed by an independent doctor who can discuss your motivations and goals before you meet with a specialist.
A mandatory seven-day cooling-off period applies after your initial consultation before surgery can be booked. Patients are also encouraged to seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner before proceeding. These requirements exist to protect patients and to ensure every decision is fully informed and free of pressure.
Breast Implant Removal Costs
| Procedure | Price Estimate | Conditions / Comments |
|---|
| Removal and replacement of breast implants (with capsulectomy and/or change of pocket) | $8,990-$13,990 | This price covers the operation, new implants, anaesthetic, surgical bra and 6 weeks follow up. If fund cover does not apply in your situation, plan for additional hospital costs of around $2,900. If applicable, you may get around $600 rebate back from Medicare. |
| Removal of Breast implants | $7,990-$10,990 | This price covers the operation, the anaesthetic & 6 weeks follow up. If fund cover does not apply in your situation, plan for additional costs of around $2,900. If applicable, you may get around $600 rebate back from Medicare. |
A final, definitive quote for plastic surgery in Sydney is provided only after a clinical consultation. As per Australian regulations, a GP referral is mandatory, and a seven-day cooling-off period must be observed before any surgical booking for breast implants surgery or removal can be finalised.
Page Content Clinically Reviewed by Dr Barnouti
Dr. Barnouti (MED: 0001192783) is a Board-Certified Specialist Plastic Surgeon with 25 years of experience performing advanced cosmetic and reconstructive procedures. He is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS), a member of ASAPS, and serves as a Conjoint Lecturer at the University of NSW.
Dr. Barnouti operates out of leading, fully accredited Sydney hospitals with a strict focus on patient safety.
Dr. Barnouti (MED: 0001192783)